Manchester United duo handed second chances

The start of the David Moyes regime and a lack of signings at Old Trafford this summer, has given some forgotten Manchester United players the opportunity to once again earn themselves a place in the starting line-up.

Brazilians Fabio da Silva and Anderson both started the recent league game at home to Crystal Palace, and these two men will now feel invigorated by the chances that have befallen them.

The full-back wasn’t even in Manchester last season, having been loaned out to relegated Queens Park Rangers. Meanwhile Anderson’s place has been under threat following the club’s public pursuit of top quality central midfielders.

But injuries and the fact that Moyes only landed one of his midfield targets has led to the Scot reverting to players who have never quite fulfilled their potential with the Premier League champions.

Whilst his twin brother, Rafael, has matured and developed into a regular right-back at Old Trafford, Fabio has been hampered by his own injuries since the duo arrived in England back in 2007.

Being restricted to just 22 league appearances in that time has surely left Fabio hungry to succeed and assert himself fully into the United first team.

And if he can replicate the enthusiasm he exhibited in the opening 30 minutes on Saturday, then he stands a good chance of regularly challenging Phil Jones and his brother for a place in the first XI.

Going forward the Brazilian was eager to receive the ball, he showed a good touch, and also the ability to offload it just as quickly. A good understanding with Antonio Valencia helped force a difficult afternoon upon opposition defender Dean Moxey.

Defensively Fabio needs to become a bit more switched on, but in a team largely on the front foot, the Brazilian still has a lot to contribute.

In addition, Anderson is another South American who has unfinished business at the Theatre of Dreams, having failed to really dazzle in the last six seasons.

The midfielder has shown – albeit in short spells – just what he can offer to a top side, with his physical strength and passing ability. But injuries have curtailed his more prolonged periods in the first team.

As a result, Anderson has spent a lot of time returning to fitness, and trying to once again find his rhythm.

However, if he can stay healthy, then he will certainly be in contention for a starting spot throughout the season. The main aspect of his game that needs working on is his goalscoring ability.

This attribute is a particular strength of recent debutant Marouane Fellaini, who will be difficult to displace in the side if he has a strong start to his Old Trafford tenure.

But with a new manager to impress, both of these Brazilians will be hopeful of a change in their own fortunes, and that they can extend their stay at Old Trafford for a few more years to come.

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DISCLAIMER

This article has been written by a member of the GiveMeSport Writing Academy and does not represent the views of
GiveMeSport.com or SportsNewMedia. The views and opinions expressed are solely that of the author credited at the top of this article.
GiveMeSport.com and SportsNewMedia do not take any responsibility for the content of its contributors.

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